The United Nations Headquarters is located on an 18-acre site along the East River in New York City. The headquarters of the United Nation though located in New York is in fact international territory and does not officially belong to the United States. The plot of land was bought by John D. Rockefeller and then donated to the United Nations, upon which construction began towards the end of 1949 and was completed in 1950. United Nations HQ complex have four buildings, the Secretariat building, the General Assembly building, the Conference building and the Dag Hammarskjold Library. In front of the United Nations Headquarters along 1st Avenue is a flag from each member of the UN, starting with the flag of Afghanistan and ending with Zimbabwe.

United Nations building opened in 1951 was instantly popular with tourists and continues to be one of the most popular destinations in New York City. Tours are available to these buildings, usually at half hourly intervals. For those really interested it is worth visiting as you get to see the Conference and Visitors Centre, General Assembly and Secretariat buildings. There is also a gift and souvenir shop for taking home gifts for family and friends.